*Photo from Bless You Boys*
Houston Astros RHP Justin Verlander will undergo Tommy John surgery, according to a statement from Verlander. Verlander has been on the IL since late July, making just one start this season before being placed on the IL. Verlander had been attempting a late season return to the Astros, but circumstances changed, and Verlander is now undergoing Tommy John.
In 2019, his last full season, Verlander went 21-6 with a 2.58 ERA in 223 innings pitched with the Astros, striking out 300 hitters in 34 starts. In his 17 year MLB career, Verlander has a 226-129 record with a 3.33 ERA in 454 games, all starts, split between the Astros and Detroit Tigers.
Verlander said in the statement that "After consulting with several of the best doctors, it has become clear that I need Tommy John surgery, I was hopeful that I would be able to return to competition in 2020, however, during my simulated game unfortunately the injury worsened. Obviously I'm extremely disappointed, but I will not let this slow down my aspirations for my career. I will approach this rehab the only way I know, attack and don't look back. I'm confident that with a proper rehabilitation program and my unwavering commitment that this surgery will ultimately lengthen my career as opposed to shorten it. I can't thank my teammates, coaches, the front office, and my fans enough for the support they have given me so far in this process. I'm eager to get through this recovery and back on the field to continue to do what I love."
Verlander may have thrown his last pitch with the Astros, as the timing of the Tommy John surgery also likely means he will miss all of the 2021 season while recovering. Verlander will become a free agent after the 2021 season. The Astros are 25-26 this season, holding second place in the AL West and the 6th seed in the AL playoff picture.
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